We all remember the friendly smile of our "neighbor," Mr. Fred Rogers, and him putting on his tennis shoes while serenading viewers in his cardigan sweater.
In honor of Pittsburgh's favorite neighbor, the Children's Museum will hold its annual sweater drive, collecting new or gently used sweaters for the needy in the region. The campaign kicks off on Friday with Mr. McFeely, the speedy delivery man from the Mister Rogers' Neighborhood television program, and Purple Panda from the Neighborhood of Make-Believe.
Bill Schlageter, marketing director for the Children's Museum, said that the campaign started in 2000.
"For the past 12 years we've been collecting sweaters during the pre-holiday season … for neighbors to share with other neighbors who are less fortunate and in need," Schlageter said.
The sweaters can be dropped off in the lobby of the museum any day of the week from November 11 through December 18. They will be distributed the week before Christmas by the United Way of Allegheny County and Presbyterian churches in the tri-state area.
Schlageter said that the drive is perfect for this time of year.
"The sweater is a piece of clothing to put on when you're feeling cold, and we just feel that this is the season where the temperatures begin to drop and it's one way you can feel warmer," Schlageter said.
